PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Two years before Viagra hit the pharmacy shelves, Charles Lennon got a penile implant to overcome his impotence.

But he’s regretted it ever since, because the steel and plastic device never worked right. While it was supposed to allow him to position his penis up for sex, then down the rest of the time, he’s been unable to lower it.

Lennon’s ten-year erection has now won him a 400-thousand-dollar judgment against the company that made the implant.

The 68-year-old Rhode Island man says it’s embarrassing, and it’s led him to become a recluse. He’s in pain and is uncomfortable being around his grandchildren. And because of other health problems he can’t get the device removed.